Chapter 17, 18 and 20 The Abolition of Slavery and The Beginnings of Feminist Movement

The American abolition movement was a by-product of religious revivalism. They condemned slavery based on moral grounds, and insisted that slavery was not compatible to Christian teachings. It was called The Second Great Awakening. Thanks to the efforts of the Society of Friends (Quakers), who originally formed the core of abolition, and later on was joined by others who were persuaded by their cause. They lobbied hard until their thinking became widespread and their cry gained support. Their lives got endangered as they faced furious opposition. Yet, they persevered. It was indeed, in my opinion, a selfless act. The original evengelical religious movement hoped for repentance and love as the ultimate result, but slavery ended through military coercion. Later on, the movement split into 2 factions and other leaders added other causes to anti-slavery like women's rights.
The feminist movement was another effect of the Atlantic Revolution. I really think that it started as a great cause, but slowly shaped into a more radical movement. According to Strayer, " Most operated through peaceful protest and persuasion, but the British Women's Social and Political Union organized a campaign of violence that included blowing up railroad stations, slashing works of art, and smashing department store windows. One British activist, Emily Davison, threw herself in front of the king's horse during a race in Britain in 1913 and was trampled to death" (p.521). I consider all these as senseless actions. What did they hope to accomplish in ruining public properties and committing suicide? To get public attention? Well, they sure got that, but did they get the support of the majority? I highly doubt it. I view defiance of these kinds as arrogance. Although, I understand that the heavy oppression must have caused much misery and ultimately led to these radical actions. It's just that I see violence as fruitless. They tend to hurt others and also themselves...